What is a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
A carpal tunnel injection is a treatment where a doctor injects medicine into the carpal tunnel — a narrow passage in the wrist that contains the median nerve. In carpal tunnel syndrome, this nerve gets pinched, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand. The injection contains a corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) and a local anesthetic (to numb the area). It helps relieve pressure on the nerve and ease symptoms.
How do you prepare for a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
- Tell your doctor about your medical history and any medicines you take, especially blood thinners.
- Tell your doctor if you had any hand surgeries.
- Discuss allergies to steroids or anesthetics.
- You can usually eat and drink normally before the procedure.
- Wear short sleeves or loose clothing so the wrist is easy to access.
- You’ll usually be able to drive yourself home afterward, however it depends on the procedure. Ask your doctor if it’s okay for you.
Why is a Carpal Tunnel Injection performed?
- To reduce pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.
- To improve hand function.
- To help people who cannot take oral medications or want to avoid surgery.
- To provide relief while waiting for other treatments (like splinting, therapy, or surgery).
What can you expect during a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
- The procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office and takes about 10–15 minutes.
- The skin on your wrist is cleaned.
- The doctor inserts a small needle into the carpal tunnel and injects the medicine.
- Ultrasound guidance is used to place the injection accurately.
- You may feel a quick sting or pressure, but it’s usually well tolerated.
- You can use your hand gently afterward, but avoid heavy gripping for a day.
What is the follow-up like for a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
- Some people feel immediate relief from the numbing medicine, but it may wear off after a few hours.
- The steroid usually takes a few days to start working.
- Relief can last from several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition.
- Your doctor may recommend splinting, hand therapy, or activity changes to help symptoms last longer.
- Injections are generally limited to a few per year 4 in 12 months in the same wrist.
What are the potential risks for a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
Most side effects are mild and short-term, such as:
- Soreness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
- Temporary numbness or tingling.
- A flare-up of pain for a day or two.
- Temporary rise in blood sugar (especially in people with diabetes)
Less common risks include:
- Infection.
- bleeding
- Nerve or tendon injury.
- Skin thinning or color changes around the injection site.
Are there related tests to a Carpal Tunnel Injection?
- A physical exam is usually done first.
- Nerve tests (EMG or nerve conduction studies) may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
- Ultrasound is used to guide the injection.
- In some cases, X-rays are used to rule out arthritis or bone problems.
Providing specialized neurological and pain management care with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Sader combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to help patients achieve optimal health outcomes.
